A guide to the export and import of cultural goods between Russia ...

Germany
Chapter 3: European Union Member States
isters of Culture has established common criteria for the listing of objects in the register.
The experts usually come from museums and public institutions. The owner of the object
does not have to pay for the cost of this expertise.
If an export licence is refused, can I appeal? How do I do that?
Yes. The administrative decisions on listing an object in a register and denying an export
licence can both be appealed: first to the relevant administrative authority, and then to the
Court (Verwaltungsgericht).
Which customs authorities are empowered to deal with the export of cultural goods?
All customs authorities in Germany can deal with export of cultural goods. You can find
the contact details at: http://www.zoll.de/service/dienststverz/index.html.
What other paperwork do I need to export a cultural object?
When you leave Germany, you must show the EU export licence and the German licence
authorising export if the goods are listed. When a licence for the export of cultural goods
of national importance is presented, it is checked to ensure that it corresponds to the
goods and is genuine, if necessary by consulting the issuing authority.
When you enter Russia, you must show all the relevant documentation and declare the object
at customs, passing through the Red channel. See Chapter 4 for further information.
What are the penalties if I do something wrong?
A prison sentence of up to three years or a fine may be imposed for the unlawful removal of
cultural goods covered by the Cultural Goods Protection Law. The goods may be confiscated.
What are the standards of service I can expect to receive?
An internal customs regulation describes the procedure for the export of cultural goods
in accordance with German applicable legislation and Council Regulation 3911/92. However,
this internal regulation is not accessible to the public.
Are there any special export restrictions on certain objects or other considerations I should
know about?
If the owner of a protected cultural good which cannot be exported is forced to sell the
goods because of economic hardship, the authorities must provide compensation.
What are the requirements if I want to import cultural goods into Germany from Russia?
No special formalities for the import of cultural goods are reported although you are advised
to check your situation with the German Customs authorities.
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